Human Interest

Naomi Matthys and her dedication to Sign Language education

Sign Language is more than just a means of communication; it's a powerful tool that bridges the gap between the Deaf and hearing communities, fostering inclusion and understanding.

In South Africa, the recognition of South African Sign Language (SASL) as an official language has underscored its importance, leading to a growing demand for Sign Language education. Naomi Matthys is one of the people dedicated to this course and is a Sign Language lecturer at the North-West University (NWU). She is known for her bright smile and her passion for and expertise in Sign Language.

Submitted on Fri, 08/30/2024 - 05:44

Netball team is focused on Varsity Netball finals

With the Varsity Netball season on the horizon, the North-West University (NWU) netball team is setting its sights on reaching the finals, a goal that reflects their determination to build on their previous performance.

Last year, the NWU team made it to the semifinals, only to be eliminated by the University of Johannesburg. This year, the team aims to go further.

"We are taking it one game at a time and treating every match as if it's the only one that matters," says coach Elsunet du Plessis, outlining the team's strategy for the upcoming season.

Submitted on Fri, 08/30/2024 - 05:39

Nico Kroucamp and team shine at the J22 Keelboat nationals

Nico Kroucamp, a senior IT technician at the North-West University (NWU), is not just a whiz with computers - he is also a talented sailor! Nico and his team recently made waves when they secured second place in the J22 Keelboat Nationals, hosted by the Lake Deneys Yacht Club in Deneysville.

Competing against the top 30 teams from across the country, Nico and his crew showcased exceptional skill and teamwork on the Vaal dam from 9 to 11 August.

Submitted on Fri, 08/30/2024 - 05:34

NWU Eagles crush CUT 3-0 in their backyard

The North-West University (NWU) Eagles secured a decisive 3-0 victory over Central University of Technology (CUT) in their fifth Varsity Football match held in Bloemfontein on 22 August 2024.

The match started with an early breakthrough for the NWU, as Molemo Kukame found the back of the net in just the second minute. The NWU maintained their momentum, and in the 35th minute, Momelezi Mngati doubled the lead, taking the score to 2-0. The teams went into halftime with the NWU firmly in control.

Submitted on Thu, 08/29/2024 - 15:37

Sandile Chaka is breaking stereotypes and pursuing excellence

Netball, widely recognised as a female-dominated sport, has been steadily gaining traction among male athletes, particularly in South Africa. This shift was marked by a historic moment in 2021 when Netball South Africa hosted the first International Male Netball Tournament - a tri-nations event featuring teams from South Africa, Uganda and Kenya. In a proud moment for the country, South Africa emerged victorious, highlighting the growing interest and talent among men in the sport.

Submitted on Thu, 08/29/2024 - 09:02

NWU chancellor honoured for her outstanding leadership

African Women in Business (AWiB) and Regenesys Business School honoured the chancellor of the North-West University (NWU) with their prestigious Outstanding Leadership Award during the AWiB Inaugural Conference awards ceremony in Sandton on 24 August.

Dr Anna Mokgokong, who was inaugurated as the NWU’s chancellor in 2019, received this special award in recognition of her entrepreneurship journey.

Submitted on Wed, 08/28/2024 - 14:58

NWU’s Ntsikie Kote has a strategy for success

Her laugh is always at the ready. It is a quick-draw one, holstered but unlocked, an infectious six-shooter that disarms in an instant. “I laugh at everything!” Ntsikie Kote, Chief Strategy Officer at the North-West University (NWU), readily admits.

Outside her office in Building F1 on the University’s Potchefstroom Campus, spring is slowly awakening from its slumber, and there is a flurry of sounds as students make their way to and from classes.

It is a moment of respite from a position that is as time consuming as it is rewarding.

Submitted on Wed, 08/28/2024 - 10:32

Female bodybuilders are breaking barriers

Two North-West University (NWU) students from the Mahikeng Campus are challenging stereotypes and making a name for themselves in the male-dominated sport of bodybuilding.

Kudzi Mudzingwa and Nomthandazo Portia Galate are not only stepping onto the stage in the Ladies Bikini Fitness category, but also reshaping perceptions and inspiring others through their dedication and resilience.

Submitted on Wed, 08/28/2024 - 09:46

Diverse Qualitative Research Perspectives Festival set to inspire and inform

The North-West University's (NWU’s) Optentia research unit is gearing up to host the upcoming Diverse Qualitative Research Perspectives Festival from 3 to 6 September at The Roots in Potchefstroom.

According to Optentia's project manager Anjonet Jordaan, this festival aims to provide a dynamic and inclusive platform that encourages the exchange of innovative methodologies and transformative practices in qualitative research.

Submitted on Wed, 08/28/2024 - 09:41